Sikorsky, PZL Mielec and PGZ ink new agreement for BlackHawk cooperation at Farnborough International Airshow

Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, and its subsidiary PZL Mielec have today signed a memorandum of understanding with Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ), one of the largest defence groups in Europe, under which PGZ companies would have significant involvement in the S-70i™ BLACK HAWK helicopter programme if Sikorsky and PZL Mielec are selected by the Polish government to provide a fleet of multirole helicopters.

The agreement, signed today, underpins Lockheed Martin's position as a trusted partner for Poland's national defence. It has the potential to extend Lockheed Martin's involvement with Polish industry to include PGZ companies in the development and test of armament solutions for international BLACK HAWK helicopters and the supply of components and assemblies for aircraft and other products manufactured by Sikorsky and PZL Mielec.

PGZ will support the positioning of the multi-role S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter in Poland as well as potential export markets in Central and Eastern Europe. The agreement is subject to a decision by Poland's government to procure BLACK HAWK helicopters, which are produced at PZL Mielec.

"With PGZ as our strategic partner, we share a similar vision for innovation and growth of Polish industry," said Previte. "Our commitment to Poland already runs deep with more than 1,500 employees at PZL Mielec and thousands more in our Polish supply chain sustained by BLACK HAWK helicopter production."

"Today's agreement improves our ability to win new orders in Poland as well across the Central and Eastern Europe region," added Previte. "This will not only help provide security of employment for our existing workforce but also increase the potential for many new jobs through export sales."

This week sees the international airshow debut of an armed version of the S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter in Farnborough, England.

In addition to today's agreement with Sikorsky and PZL Mielec, other Lockheed Martin businesses are currently in discussion with PGZ regarding involvement in numerous programmes spanning air, sea, air and missile defence, weapons and artillery systems and space.